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Parks committee outlines capital priorities: Epstein Park, theater RFP, slides and signage among top items
Summary
Committee members reviewed the capital list, confirming Epstein Park work likely funded by TIF, agreeing to seek a theater RFP, and flagging pool slides, parking signage and prairie restoration as priorities to scope for the 2026 budget cycle. No binding allocations were made.
The committee reviewed its proposed parks capital priorities for the next budget cycle, touching on Epstein Park, a planned theater renovation RFP, pool maintenance, parking and wayfinding signs, and prairie restoration at Mingo.
Speaker 1 said a large amount was set aside in the prior budget for Epstein Park and committee members suggested a more modest initial scope focused on a stone path, improved parking and lighting so the park is usable and accessible. Speaker 3 confirmed Epstein improvements would come from TIF funds.
On the theater, staff (Speaker 4) reported a recent building walkthrough and said an RFP to solicit restoration/renovation proposals was being finalized and hoped to be posted imminently. "The goal was gonna be tomorrow," Speaker 4 said regarding the RFP posting timeline.
Committee members also discussed significant maintenance items: two large pool slides with repair estimates in the tens of thousands (speakers cited figures of roughly $45,000–$50,000 each) and the staffing implications of operating large slides; members suggested evaluating smaller replacements that require fewer lifeguards. Members highlighted the value of signage to clarify overflow parking for tournaments at Rolfe/marketplace areas and discussed possible solar wayfinding at the river to support navigation to the gazebo, disc golf and Audubon Island.
Speaker 8 described a proposed prairie conversion at the Mingo training center to reduce annual mowing costs; staff estimated several months to establish prairie sections and noted periodic management for up to five years.
No formal appropriations or project approvals were taken; staff will return with RFP details, refined cost estimates and recommended prioritization for the 2026 budget.
